Extracellular matrix molecules play diverse roles in the growth and guidance of central nervous system axons

Abstract

Axon growth and guidance represent complex biological processes in which probably intervene diverse sets of molecular cues that allow for the appropriate wiring of the central nervous system (CNS). The extracellular matrix (ECM) represents a major contributor of molecular signals either diffusible or membrane-bound that may regulate different stages of neural development. Some of the brain ECM molecules form tridimensional structures (tunnels and boundaries) that appear during time-and space-regulated events, possibly playing relevant roles in the control of axon elongation and pathfinding. This short review focuses mainly on the recognized roles played by proteoglycans, laminin, fibronectin and tenascin in axonal development during ontogenesis.

Fibronectin is a binding partner for the myelin‐associated glycoprotein (siglec‐4a)

“…During recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the structural and functional complexity of ECM molecules in brain [37]. This has led to the concept that ECM components contribute significantly to molecular signals in the nervous system both as diffusible and as membrane‐bound molecules [38]. It will be interesting to elucidate to what extent interactions between MAG and the different MAG binding ECM molecules influence interactions between MAG and neurons.…”

The extracellular matrix in multiple sclerosis: an update

“…Numerous ECM molecules, including laminins, fibronectin, tenascins, collagens and proteoglycans are essential for CNS development (35). ECM molecule functions in the adult CNS following injury may, however, differ from those in development and need to be defined in pathological conditions.…”

Proteomic Profiling of Retinoblastoma-Derived Exosomes Reveals Potential Biomarkers of Vitreous Seeding

“…Moreover, integrins have been identified in exosomes, and their transfer through these vesicles is implicated in the promotion of cell adhesion, migration and the determination of organotropism in metastatic dissemination [ 58 , 91 ]. During retinal development, ECM constituents play versatile roles, which include cellular proliferation, differentiation, migration, adhesion and maturation, as well as axonal growth and guidance [ 92 , 93 , 94 , 95 ]. ECM components and their remodeling have a crucial role in several diseases of the retina, such as retinal injury and cancer, where changes in the interaction of cells and ECM components occur with a consequent disruption of the retinal homeostasis [ 96 , 97 ].…”